So Close and yet so far away comparing civic social capital in two cuban congregations Book Chapter

Mahler, SJ. (2009). So Close and yet so far away comparing civic social capital in two cuban congregations . 41-71.

cited authors

  • Mahler, SJ

authors

abstract

  • The Refugees and Disciples demonstrate the importance that religion has for immigrants as they adjust to a new environment. The Refugees and Disciples also illustrate the fluidity of CSC over time and the commonsensical though not often stated fact that different varieties of social capital can and typically do co-exist. For these particular congregations, denomination does not necessarily matter that much in the formation of CSC. The fact that the Refugees are Seventh- Day Adventists from Cuba, where they were discriminated against arguably more than other denominations, can be used to explain their highly inward orientation. However, the Disciples held a similar orientation until inspired to move into a new direction.? Leadership, not merely professional but particularly lay leadership, its cultivation and its application, does matter in these congregations. The leadership development programs of both the Refugees' and Disciples' churches draw people into webs of interaction. The great difference is that among the Disciples these webs are spun to include diverse individuals and institutions of the greater society, whereas the Refugees continue to weave theirs into a shelter, a sanctuary of continuity amidst stormy seas. What made the difference? I have discussed many factors but save one for the conclusion to highlight. In the United States famous books and films resonate a theme that is very American-the importance of individuals, specifically charismatic leaders. Whether it is the Little Engine that Could, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, or the Reverend Jerry Falwell inspiring the Moral Majority to jump into politics, hard-working, dedicated individuals are viewed as inspirational. Thousands of sermons calling upon congregants to do the Lord's work, like the "Brother " sermon from Pastor Moreno, are preached each week yet inspire little real civic work. But, as in the Disciples' case and, indeed, as in different prophets' cases, the presence and persistence of one real, palpable, inspirational figure, a "charismatic prophet" in Weber's terms, can catalyze and transform an entire congregation or people. Yet even then the Disciples' charismatic prophet had little impact until his woman congregant, Flor, forced him to adjust his habitus to her concerns. Charisma in sync with congregants' habitus can mobilize an extraordinary amount of civic social capital. Copyright © 2009 by Rutgers, The State University. All rights reserved.

publication date

  • December 1, 2009

start page

  • 41

end page

  • 71